Your website’s page rank is dependent on a number of factors. Having “backlinks,” links to your website from other websites or blogs, will give your website a significant boost. Backlinks are the links that direct traffic to your web site from someone else’s site. The quality of the backlink is judged by the popularity and relevancy of the site from which it originates. Each backlink that exists can give more credibility to your website. Therefore, the more quality backlinks that exist to your site, the higher page ranking it will reach in the search engines.

Paying for backlinks could end up costing you a fortune, especially if you make reoccurring payments to keep them active. Many companies who offer paid backlinks are not favored by Google and could end up getting your site penalized and out of Google’s favor, as well. Let’s look at a few ways to get free backlinks that are worth the time and energy you will put into getting them.

The first thing to look at is your website content. Do you have something worth linking to? Quality content or useful tools will always lead to better backlinks. If you are providing information that is worth linking to, you will have a much easier time acquiring free relevant backlinks. It takes time to build valuable content and pinpoint what drives your traffic, but once you have it, you’ll be amazed at the great links you earn.

Don’t forget to use your own websites and blogs as a resource. If you only have one website, it is recommended that you create other mini sites or blogs that you can use to support traffic to your main site. You can create multiple free backlinks within them. This is a perfect place to start. Just be careful not to overdo it. Google will pick up on you if you do too many too fast. Also, be sure to vary your anchor text.

Probably the most common and effective way to get free backlinks is to submit your content or url to search engine directories. The most economical way to do this is to purchase an automated submission service such as www.vodahits.com. The onetime expense is certainly worth it.

Writing articles is another excellent way to circulate your link. Stay on topic, include your backlink, and submit your articles to relevant websites. This method allows you to not only remain in control of the content in which your link is found, but you can also handpick the most valuable websites yourself. If you submit them to an article directory, make sure that they are categorized according to their theme.

Have you checked out your competition lately? Do some investigating. See where their links come from and solicit those websites for yourself. Some may want money or require an application, but you’re bound to gain a few more worthy links. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Finally, always put our link in your online signature. Whenever you post on forums or message boards, this link will provide another connection to your site. You will be surprised at how many of those links actually stick and make a difference.

Getting quality backlinks takes time. You will need to invest some time on a regular basis to create a rich network of backlinks. Use these tips to ensure you are spending your time wisely. By steering clear of any unethical practices you will enjoy the rewards of quality traffic and earn your website a secure, aggressive page ranking